Читать книгу Start & Run a Tour Guiding Business - Barbara Braidwood Susan Boyce & Richard Cropp - Страница 19

Don’t forget that language is not made up only of words. Every culture has idioms, gestures, and other nonverbal language. Here is a sample of some unusual customs and body language you may experience:

(a) In Portugal you may discuss business over lunch but never at dinner.

(b) Do not send flowers to thank your Chinese host. Except when brought to the hospital, a bouquet is believed to bring misfortune to the recipient.

(c) In Australia, the thumbs-up sign we use in North America to say “great” is more vulgar than the middle finger — something former US president George Bush learned to his lasting embarrassment while on a diplomatic trip Down Under.

(d) In Malaysia, pointing at an object with your index finger is rude. Use your thumb instead.

(e) In Israel, Singapore, Egypt, and Saudi Arabia, crossing your legs so someone can see the sole of your shoe is an insult.

(f) Fijians consider it a sign of respect for a person to talk with arms crossed over his or her chest.

(g) A smile is universal. Show yours frequently!

Cross-cultural faux pas can be embarrassing for both host and guest, so prepare before you go. Talk to other guides or make friends with someone who was born in the country. You might want to take a look at books in the series The Simple Guide to Customs & Etiquette in..., published by Global Books.